Lesser Belle
Common NameLesser Belle
Scientific NamePalthis asopialis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyHypeninae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, yellowish-brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas, and gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, various deciduous trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are loopers, feeding on the foliage of various deciduous plants. They pupate in a cocoon, and the species typically overwinters as a pupa or adult.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its triangular resting posture, greyish-brown ground color, and the characteristic wavy, yellowish-brown lines on the forewings. The labial palps are prominent and upturned.
Description
A small, triangular-winged moth with a cryptic greyish-brown coloration, featuring several wavy, yellowish-brown transverse lines across the forewings.
